10 days
4/4
from June to September
from 3803€

From the high peaks of the French Alps to the Mediterranean — by bike!

The Route des Grandes Alpes is a legendary cycling adventure through the heart of the French Alps. It takes you from Lake Geneva, along the Swiss border, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea in Nice.
Over nine days, you’ll ride 700 kilometers and climb roughly 18,000 meters of elevation.

A dedicated support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the journey, handling luggage transfers, on-ride nutrition, basic mechanical support, and — if weather conditions require it — transport down to the valley.

We’ve taken care of every detail to ensure your experience on the Great Alpine Road is truly unforgettable. Once you sign up, you can forget about all the logistics — we handle everything, from transport to Lake Geneva, accommodations and meals, daily luggage transfers, all the way to the return journey home from Nice.

On average, we’ll ride 87 km per day with 2,237 meters of elevation gain.

Day 1

Welcome to Italy!

Your cycling adventure begins in Italy — and we’ll make sure everything is smooth, simple, and stress-free from the moment you arrive. We’ll pick you up at Geneva Airport at 15:00 PM, then head straight to the city, where our hotel will be waiting for us.

Once we check in, you’ll have time to get everything ready for the days ahead — bike setup, gear checks, and final adjustments — so you feel fully dialed in and prepared.

In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore the city area at a relaxed pace and settle in before the riding begins.

In the evening, we’ll come together for a group dinner, the perfect chance to get to know each other, enjoy great local food, and kick off the trip the right way.

Day 2 - Cycling from Thonon-les-Bains to Cluses

First Turns of the Alps!

After breakfast, we begin with a transfer to Thonon-les-Bains, where our journey officially starts. The opening kilometers are relaxed, following a steady, gentle climb toward Morzine — a perfect warm-up before the real cycling begins.

From Morzine, the road tilts upward in earnest as we take on the legendary Col de Joux Plane. This is where the Alps introduce themselves properly. At the summit, we take time to refuel and soak in the views, with Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe, dominating the skyline in the distance.

A rewarding descent follows down to Morillon, after which a few easy kilometers carry us smoothly to our accommodation in Cluses. The afternoon is free for rest and recovery, and we wrap up the day with dinner at one of Cluses’ local restaurants — the perfect way to ease into the rhythm of the Alps.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Col de Joux Plane – A classic Alpine climb with sweeping views and a first true test of the legs
78,9
Kilometres
1810
Elevation metres
4h 35min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 3 - Cycling from Cluses to Les Saisies

Where the French Alps Get Serious!

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll load your luggage into the support vehicle and clip in for the day’s ride.

Today brings your first true cycling challenge in the French Alps. We start with a steady warm-up climb to Col de la Colombière, easing the legs into alpine mode. After a well-timed refreshment stop, the route drops briefly before rising again toward Col des Aravis, a classic Alpine pass known for its open views and smooth rhythm.

Following another descent, the final test of the day awaits: the climb to La Saisies, where our hotel waits for us.

The rest of the day is yours — time to rest, stretch your legs, or take a short walk to a nearby viewpoint. In the evening, we wind down with dinner at a local restaurant, the perfect reward after a proper Alpine day.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Col de la Colombière – A classic Alpine warm-up climb that sets the tone for the day
  • Col des Aravis – A scenic and iconic pass offering wide-open views of the surrounding peaks
70,2
Kilometres
2580
Elevation metres
5h 10min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 4 - Cycling from Les Saisies to Val d'Isere

High-Mountain Reset!

Stage three delivers a true Alpine test. After breakfast, we start with a long, spectacular descent back toward Beaufort, easing into the day before turning our sights back toward the high mountains.

From town, the road rises steadily toward Cormet de Roselend. Along the way, we ride past the iconic Lac de Roselend — a perfect photo stop, with turquoise water framed by rugged peaks. Sitting at 1,968 meters, Cormet de Roselend is a frequent feature of the Tour de France. We refuel at the summit before enjoying a long, rewarding descent into Bourg-Saint-Maurice.

The next climb may be less dramatic, but it’s an important one: the ascent to the ski resort of Val d’Isère. This stretch follows a wider, slightly busier road, but it leads us to our accommodation high in the Isère Valley, at around 1,800 meters — the perfect base for the main challenge awaiting us the following day.

After the ride, there’s time to rest or take a relaxed walk around Val d’Isère. We close the day with dinner at one of the many local restaurants — fuel, comfort, and anticipation for what’s next.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Cormet de Roselend – A Tour de France classic with stunning lake views and a rewarding high-alpine summit
  • Val d’Isère – A legendary Alpine resort and the ideal launch point for tomorrow’s big challenge
88,6
Kilometres
2580
Elevation metres
5h 35min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 5 - Cycling fromVal d'Isere to Valloire

Iseran High, Galibier Ahead!

Another classic Alpine morning — hotel breakfast, luggage loaded into the support vehicle, and it’s go time. The legs may already feel the miles, but here’s the good news: today delivers one of the most epic climbs in the Alps — Col d’Iseran, one of the highest paved passes in Europe, rising to 2,764 meters.

The climb is long, steady, and unforgettable. At the summit, we regroup for well-earned refreshments and the kind of photos that instantly become lifetime memories.

From the top, a long descent carries us down the valley to Saint-Martin-d’Arc, where the next chapter begins. Ahead lie two legendary names in cycling history: Col du Télégraphe and Col du Galibier.

We don’t climb Galibier just yet — our accommodation awaits in Valloire, perfectly positioned about halfway up the mountain. After check-in, there’s time to rest and recharge before closing the day with dinner at one of Valloire’s local restaurants.

A demanding day, a legendary setting, and the feeling that something big is building.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Col d’Iseran – One of the highest paved passes in the Alps, delivering altitude, scale, and a true sense of achievement
109
Kilometres
2270
Elevation metres
5h 55min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 6 - Cycling from Valloire to Briancon

A “Rest Day” at 2,642 m!

Does this sound a little unusual? After five demanding days of riding, climbing to 2,642 meters on Col du Galibier might actually feel like a recovery day. Today’s stage is “only” 52 kilometers with 1,300 meters of elevation gain. Given the intensity of the previous days — and what still lies ahead — we strongly recommend treating day five as a slightly lighter one.

The climb to Galibier comes after just 18 kilometers of riding. From the summit, we descend along the very road where Primož Roglič claimed his first Slovenian stage victory at the Tour de France in 2017, dropping all the way down into the valley and on to our base in Briançon.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Briançon, the highest city in France, perched at 1,200 meters and rich in history, fortifications, and alpine character. We wrap up the day with dinner at one of the town’s local restaurants — relaxed, satisfied, and perfectly set up for what comes next.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Col du Galibier – One of the most legendary climbs in cycling, iconic, historic, and unforgettable
  • Briançon – France’s highest city, blending alpine culture, history, and a perfect rider’s atmosphere
53,9
Kilometres
1230
Elevation metres
3h
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 7 - Cycling from Briancon to Barcelonette

A Day for the Soul!

A new day brings two more 2,000-meter giants — and the challenge doesn’t let up. Today’s ride delivers 100 kilometers and 2,530 meters of elevation gain. After breakfast and loading the bikes, we head straight for Col d’Izoard (2,360 m), one of the most storied climbs in cycling history and a frequent feature of the Tour de France. Like many legendary passes, Izoard leaves a mark — this one will stay with you long after the summit photo.

From the top, a descent resets the legs before the next ascent begins toward Col de Vars. At around the 70-kilometer mark, we reach the summit at 2,108 meters, then enjoy a long descent down to our accommodation in Barcelonnette.

The afternoon is yours to recover and recharge. We close the day with dinner at one of Barcelonnette’s many local restaurants — relaxed, satisfied, and ready for what’s still to come.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Col d’Izoard – A Tour de France legend, famous for its lunar landscapes and unforgettable summit
  • Barcelonnette – A charming alpine town in the Ubaye Valley, perfect for rest and recovery
100
Kilometres
2530
Elevation metres
5h 55min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 8 - Cycling from Barcelonette to Rimplas

Last Alpine Giant!

By now, our journey has moved deep into its second half — and on day seven, the Mediterranean influence becomes unmistakable. The air in the valleys grows warmer, the light sharper, setting the perfect stage for the final 2,000-meter climb of the tour.

Ahead of us stands Cime de la Bonette, the highest point of our entire cycling journey, rising to 2,802 meters above sea level. We reach the summit after 31 kilometers of climbing, followed by an unforgettable 58-kilometer descent southward — fast, sun-drenched, and completely different in character from the high Alps behind us.

The riding isn’t quite finished yet. The day concludes with an additional 8-kilometer climb and 550 meters of elevation gain to our accommodation in the quiet village of Rimplas, tucked deep inside Mercantour National Park.

Rimplas, home to just around 100 residents, welcomes us with a small, cozy hotel. The rest of the afternoon is reserved for a relaxed walk through its narrow cobblestone streets. Dinner is a highlight in itself — homemade cuisine using local ingredients, the perfect fuel and atmosphere before the demanding finale of our cycling adventure.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Cime de la Bonette – The highest road point of the journey, combining extreme altitude with a spectacular descent toward the Mediterranean
101
Kilometres
2400
Elevation metres
5h 45min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 9 - Cycling from Rimplas to Menton

The Ultimate Riviera Finale!

The final stage opens with a steady climb to Col Saint-Martin (1,493 m), setting the tone for the day. A descent into the valley follows before we rise again toward Col de Turini (1,607 m), a legendary road known from both cycling and motorsport history. From there, we descend into Sospel, where the scenery shifts unmistakably into warm Mediterranean tones.

To complete the Route des Grandes Alpes, one final climb awaits: Col de Castillon (728 m). After a short tunnel near the summit, the reward arrives — the first clear view of the Mediterranean Sea, stretching out ahead and staying with us all the way to the finish. A final 10-kilometer descent leads us down into Menton, often called the Pearl of France and frequently ranked among the most beautiful towns on the French Riviera.

This stage isn’t easy, but there’s comfort in knowing that much of the route follows legendary Tour de France roads. We end the journey exactly as it deserves — exploring Menton, taking a refreshing swim in the sea, relaxing on the beach, and gathering for our final dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating a journey from the high Alps all the way to the Mediterranean.

⭐ Today’s Must-See Highlights

  • Col Saint-Martin – A steady Alpine opener marking the transition from mountains toward the south
  • Col de Turini – A legendary climb famous for its flowing road and dramatic scenery
94,9
Kilometres
2500
Elevation metres
5h 35min
Cycling time
Komoot
route tour
Day 10

The end!

After a final breakfast, we say goodbye to the beautiful alpine mountains that have been our home for the past 10 days. We travel together toward Nice, arriving comfortably at the Nice airport around 10:00 AM. The drive is a chance to share last impressions, stories from the rides, and a quiet smile at how quickly the week has passed.

At the airport, we say our goodbyes as you continue your journey — And who knows — perhaps we’ll meet again next year on a new cycling adventure.

What is included in the price?

Our trip includes:

  • Organized transportation on the first day of the trip for you and your bike using the tour operator’s vehicles. Pick-up available at Geneva Airport at 15:00 PM.
  • Organized transportation on the last day of the trip for you and your bike using the tour operator’s vehicles. Drop-off available at Nice Airport at 10:00 AM.
  • 9 nights in 3*** or 4**** hotels with breakfast included.
  • Water and isotonic drinks during the rides.
  • Sweet and salty snacks during the rides.
  • Refreshment stops along the route.
  • Support vehicle accompanying the group during the rides.
  • Emergency bike service if needed throughout the journey.
  • Luggage transfer between accommodations.
  • Travel organization and preparation costs included.
  • GPX routes to download to your navigation devices.
  • A PDF guidebook with highlights and points of interest along the journey.

What is not included in the trip price and possible supplements:

The basic price of the trip does not include:

  • Cost of drinks on all days of the trip.
  • There are many opportunities for individual sightseeing during the trip. Entrance fees are not included in the price.

Extra charges may apply:

  • Single room (You can select it during registration)
  • road/gravel or electric bike rental (You can select it during registration)
  • cancellation risk cost (Arrange it with your local providers)
    – basic cover
    – extended cover
  • cost of accident insurance (Arrange it with your local providers)

Map of the entire journey

Where do we stay?

  1. ibis Styles Genève Carouge 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  2. The Originals City, Hôtel du Faucigny, Cluses Ouest 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  3. Le Calgary 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  4. Victoria Lodge, Friendly Hotel 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  5. Christiania Hôtel 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  6. Hotel Vauban Briançon Serre Chevalier 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  7. Hotel Spa Azteca Barcelonnette 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  8. Auberge de jeunesse HI Valdeblore – Le Chalet, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.
  9. Ibis Styles Menton Centre 3***, breakfast included, twin rooms with separate beds.

In the event of unforeseen changes, we reserve the right to provide alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality than originally planned.

How do I apply?

Signing up is quick and easy – just follow these 3 simple steps!

Fill in the registration form

Fill in your details on the online registration form, submit it and you’re on your way to an unforgettable cycling adventure!

Payment

Confirm your registration by simply paying 25% of the trip. Hurry, places are limited!

What's next?

After payment, we will send you a confirmation and an invoice. 60 days before departure, you will receive detailed instructions to make sure you are ready to go.

Log in

Don’t delay – apply now and be part of an unforgettable journey that will inspire you with breathtaking views, new friendships and moments you’ll remember for a long time.

No. of applicants:

Log in

FAQ

Together for the best cycling experience!

1. Booking & Payment

1.1 How do I register for a cycling trip?

At the bottom of every trip page, you’ll find a registration form. Take a moment to read it carefully and fill in all required fields, including any optional add-ons. Once you submit the form, you’ll receive an email with a PDF summary of your registration along with the payment details.

1.2 When and how do I pay the deposit or full amount?

During registration, you can choose to pay a 25% deposit or the full trip price. We recommend completing your payment as soon as possible, as this final step officially secures your spot. After registering, you’ll receive an email with all instructions and payment information.
The full balance must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.

1.3 What happens if I need to cancel? Are there cancellation terms?

Refunds are issued according to our Terms & Conditions. You can review the full cancellation policy here.

1.4 Can I change my travel date or package after registering?

Yes — changes are possible by agreement, up to 30 days before departure.
For details, contact us at info@gobiketravel.com

2. Bikes & Equipment

2.1 Do I need to bring my own bike, or can I rent one?

Whichever suits you best. You’ll indicate your choice in the registration form.
If you bring your own bike, we’ll reserve space for it in the airport shuttle.
If you choose to rent, simply submit the required details, and your bike will be waiting at your hotel before the first ride.

2.2 What types of bikes are available for rent?

You can choose from:

  • Road Bike
  • Mountain Bike
  • Gravel Bike
  • Electric Hardtail MTB
  • Electric Full-Suspension MTB
  • Electric Road Bike

2.3 Am I responsible for damage to a rental bike?

Yes. In case of major damage, repair costs must be covered by the renter.

2.4 What equipment is included with the bike?

You’ll receive water bottles and your chosen pedal type. Available options include Look pedals, Shimano SPD, Shimano SPD-SL, or MTB flat pedals. You’ll also get a basic repair kit with essential tools and a spare tube for emergencies.

2.5 What if my bike breaks during the trip?

On Supported or Supported & Guided trips, our support vehicle provides basic on-the-spot repairs. For damage requiring a bike shop, we will help you reach the nearest service center (repair costs are covered by the rider).
On Self-Guided trips, you are responsible for carrying basic tools and handling minor repairs on your own.

3. The Cycling Trip Experience

3.1 What’s the difference between Self-Guided, Supported, and Supported & Guided trips?

Self-Guided: We take care of logistics (hotels, airport transfers, luggage transport), while you ride independently.

Supported: Everything from Self-Guided plus a support vehicle offering drinks, snacks, emergency repairs, and refreshment stops.

Supported & Guided: Full support plus a professional cycling guide riding with you — navigation, insights, assistance, photos, and on-the-road support.

For a more detailed explanation of how the trip types differ, click HERE.

3.2 Are the routes suitable for beginners or experienced cyclists?

Routes are designed for the average recreational cyclist. These are not races — the goal is enjoyment. Each trip includes a difficulty rating listed at the top of the trip page.

3.3 How many kilometers do we ride per day?

It depends on the trip. Daily distances are listed in the itinerary. You can shorten a stage using the support vehicle or extend it with an optional climb or loop.

3.4 Can I ride at my own pace and stop whenever I want?

Absolutely. Our trips encourage riding at your own speed and taking breaks whenever something catches your eye. Guides are happy to wait for you.

3.5 What is the best time of year for cycling?

Trips are scheduled during optimal cycling months. Daily riding usually begins around 10:00 AM, but this can be adjusted with your guide.

3.6 What if it rains?

Self-Guided: You’ll need to wait for the storm to pass.

Supported / Supported & Guided: The support vehicle is always available. In severe weather, we can adjust the route or departure time.

3.7 Can stages be shortened or extended?

Yes — shorten a stage using the support vehicle or extend it with an additional climb.

3.8 Can we travel on dates that are not listed?

Yes, for groups of several cyclists we can arrange custom departure dates.
Contact us at info@gobiketravel.com
.

4. Accommodation & Meals

4.1 What types of hotels do you use?

We typically book 3- and 4-star hotels with breakfast included. Rooms are double with separate beds. In rare cases, if hotels are fully booked, you may receive a shared double bed — this will always be clearly stated in the trip details.

4.2 Are meals or drinks included in the price?

Breakfast is always included; dinner is sometimes included and noted in the itinerary. Drinks are never included.

4.3 Is luggage transferred between hotels?

Yes. All trip types include daily luggage transfers. You carry only what you want for the ride.

5. Logistics & Support

5.1 Is a support vehicle available?

Support vehicles are included on all Supported and Supported & Guided trips.

5.2 What does support during cycling include?

You’ll have a support driver nearby at all times, refreshment stops every 20–25 km, water, isotonic drinks, snacks, and basic emergency bike service (e.g., flat tires).
Support can also help shorten a stage if needed.

5.3 How do I receive the GPX routes?

You’ll receive GPX files by email approximately 14 days before departure. Simply upload them to your navigation device.

5.4 Do you offer airport transfers?

Yes. Every trip includes airport transfers from and to designated airports.
If you arrive at a different airport or at another time, we can arrange a private shuttle for an additional fee.

6. Safety

6.1 What happens in case of an accident or injury?

On Supported and Supported & Guided trips, we provide first aid and transport to a hospital if safe. On Self-Guided trips, you must manage this independently.

6.2 Are the trips suitable for children or families?

Somewhat. They are suitable for families familiar with cycling together.
Children must be able to ride safely in traffic, and parents should consider distance and elevation. We can also create a custom, easier itinerary for families upon request — contact us at info@gobiketravel.com

6.3 Do I need travel or accident insurance?

We strongly recommend arranging accident or travel insurance with your local provider. It can significantly reduce medical and transport costs in case of an emergency.

What do our cycling journeys look like?

We take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying yourself – from the moment you check in until you return home. With us, cycling trips are more than just sport – they’re stories you’ll tell for a long time to come.

Read more

Similar trips

Discover more unforgettable cycling trips!

from June to September
6 days
Discover the Dolomites by Bike – Legendary Passes
from 1957€
from April to October
7 days
Via Romagna by Bike – Discover Italy Beyond the Tourist Trails
from 2228€
from May to September
7 days
German Romantic Road Cycling Tour – E-MTB & Gravel
from 2463€

Do you have your own team of cycling enthusiasts?

We organise unforgettable cycling experiences for groups – we can tailor the dates and the trip to your wishes! Send us an enquiry and together we’ll create the perfect adventure for your team!”

Send us an enquiry